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Have you ever wondered about the boys and girls we meet on the streets who are too old to join our boarding school program? Well, allow me to introduce you to Kennedy. In case you haven't heard, today is MITS Day of Sharing. This day is dedicated to celebrating stories like Kennedy's and joining together to give and impact the lives of even more teenagers like him. We know that our impact is stronger together, so we look forward to what we can all accomplish today!
Kennedy's story began in Mathare, where he lived with his mother and sisters during his early years. Witnessing the disrespect his mother received from his stepfather, Kennedy's resentment and discontent grew. This eventually led to his decision to run away from home, and he began living on the streets of Eastleigh in 2016.
Kennedy's life in Eastleigh was filled with challenges. In order to survive, he carried business owners' luggage during the day and, in the company of "friends," resorted to breaking into people's houses at night. In January 2022, he was caught and arrested, leading to a 10-month stay at a correctional facility. Kennedy's turning point came after he began consistently attending MITS programs in Eastleigh. He felt ready to break free from the cycle of street life that had pushed him into committing petty crimes for survival. With his own determination and the support of the MITS team, Kennedy successfully overcame his habits of drug abuse and embarked on a path of positive change. Recognizing Kennedy's potential and desire for transformation, our team enrolled him in a technical institute. He is currently studying welding and displays both talent and dedication in this field. At 20 years old, he finds himself brimming with optimism for the future. MITS remains committed to supporting Kennedy on his journey to independence and freedom from the cycle of street life. With his newfound skills and determination, Kennedy is poised to create a better future for himself. Kennedy's story is a testament to the power of education, support, and opportunity to break the chains of street life. His journey is one of many that inspires us to continue our mission to transform the lives of vulnerable street children. You can join us in empowering other boys and girls like Kennedy to step into a better life. Give today to make an impact! https://give.madeinthestreets.org/give/514032/#!/donation/checkout
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When those jobs were not available, she went with my siblings and I to beg in the streets, so we could get money to buy food and house rent among other things. At times I would go without her, but I would carry my youngest brother on my back to go and beg in the streets of Nairobi. I would walk as far as the city center and Eastleigh, which is quite some distance from my home. My youngest brother helped because he attracted sympathy from passers by who thought he was mine, and they would give. My mom said she had been doing the job of begging since even before she had any of us. I started begging at 6 or 7 years old. I am 14 now.
After my mom's passing, my grandmother took us in. My siblings and I, with my cousins and aunt, lived together. Life wasn't easy there. I have suffered in the hands of my grandmother, being forced to do house chores and at times denied food. My siblings always got food though. I would still go and beg as usual to supplement whatever was needed. In the streets I encountered some difficult experiences. There were different kinds of abuse, lack of a place to sleep, frequent trouble with the police, people who would just talk bad at us, and exposure to drugs. Most of the time I was completely out of it, since I was always high on something. I had no direction at all. Today, I am happy and feel so much better being at MADE IN THE STREETS. When I first came here I had no Idea how to read or write a single English word. Now I can read many English words. It is hard to create a whole sentence on my own, but I can understand books and do class work. I am already up one class since I joined MITS. I do not wish to go back to that life in the streets. I want to keep on getting better. MITS has really helped me because I would still be begging, using drugs, and suffering. One day I wish to become a doctor, so that I can help sick people to get well. I also want to take my siblings to school in order to get an education like I have, and I also want to help my grandmother move from where she lives to a better place. Mary's story is one of courage and hope. Join us this Sunday in giving to impact even more boys and girls like Mary. All children deserve the opportunity to dream, and your support provides those opportunities. P.S. You don't have to wait until September 17th to give...you can do that today! https://give.madeinthestreets.org/give/514032/#!/donation/checkout |
When you do this for 27 years, you're bound to pick up a few stories and lessons along the way. Thoughts, impressions, news, and highlights from our staff, visitors, donors, students and alumni.
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409 Franklin Road | Brentwood, TN 37027 | ©2023 MADE IN THE STREETS | site by cecily | PRIVACY POLICY
409 Franklin Road | Brentwood, TN 37027 | ©2023 MADE IN THE STREETS | site by cecily | PRIVACY POLICY